His Dark Materials
His Dark Materials Series
What’s inside...
The series follows Lyra Belacqua and Will Parry as they adventure through various parallel universes and uncover deep secrets of their worlds. 'Northern Lights' introduces Lyra, an orphan who lives in a parallel universe where science, theology, and magic are intertwined. Her search for a kidnapped friend uncovers a sinister plot involving stolen children and leads to a quest to understand a mysterious phenomenon called Dust. In 'The Subtle Knife,' she is joined by Will, a boy with a knife that can cut between worlds. As Lyra uncovers the truth about her parents and her prophesied destiny, they are caught up in a war against celestial powers across many worlds, culminating in 'The Amber Spyglass.' The story is a spellbinding adventure with armoured polar bears, magical devices, witches, and daemons. It is also a profound re-imagining of Milton's 'Paradise Lost', blending metaphysical speculation with bravura storytelling in a monumental and enduring achievement.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-13
Length
1102 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Lyra Belacqua
Will Parry
Iorek Byrnison
Lee Scoresby
Pantalaimon
Roger Parslow
Serafina Pekkala
Mary Malone
John Faa
Farder Coram
Lord Asriel
Marisa Coulter
Stanislaus Grumman
Iofur Raknison
Discussion points
What do you think are the main themes of 'His Dark Materials'? How do these themes relate to your own experiences?
How does the relationship between Lyra and Will evolve throughout the series? What do you think made them trust each other?
The concept of 'Dust' is central to the series. What is your interpretation of 'Dust' and why do you think it's important to the story?
If you had a daemon, what form do you think it would take and why?
How do the different worlds in the series compare to our world? What similarities and differences can you identify?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book, affirming that all interpretations are valid.
Discuss the moral and ethical questions raised in the book, guiding them to consider different perspectives.
Relate the challenges faced by the characters to real-life situations your child might encounter, enhancing their empathy and understanding.
Explore together how courage and friendship are depicted in the book, and relate these themes to your child’s personal experiences.
Make connections between the fantasy elements of the book and real-world science and philosophy to pique your child’s curiosity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of courage and bravery
Explanation: Throughout 'His Dark Materials,' characters often face difficult decisions and dangers, demonstrating bravery and courage.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their fears and make tough decisions even when they're scared, whether it's standing up to a bully or trying something new.
Example Lesson: The value of curiosity and seeking knowledge
Explanation: The protagonist, Lyra, is always curious and eager to learn more about the world around her. This trait leads her to discover truths and make important decisions.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and seek out answers, fostering a love of learning that can help in school and everyday problem-solving.
Example Lesson: Understanding the complexity of right and wrong
Explanation: The series explores complex moral dilemmas, showing that right and wrong are not always black and white.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of considering different perspectives and the complexities involved in making ethical decisions.
Example Lesson: The significance of friendship and loyalty
Explanation: Characters in the books frequently rely on their friends and demonstrate loyalty to one another in challenging times.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of supporting and trusting their friends and the value of building strong, supportive relationships.